Whose painting "Liberty Leading the People" is on the cover of Coldplay's album "Viva La Vida"?

"Liberty Leading the People" is a painting by Eugène Delacroix commemorating the July Revolution of 1830, which toppled King Charles X of France.

A woman of the people with a Phrygian cap, adopted by the revolutionaries as “the red cap of liberty”, was seen as someone personifying the concept of Liberty. She led the people forward over a barricade and the bodies of the fallen, holding the flag of the French Revolution – the 'Tricolor'. It would become France's national flag after these events. While the lady had the flag in one hand, she was brandishing a bayonetted musket with the other. Being the figure of Liberty, she is now viewed as a symbol of France and the French Republic known as Marianne.

The painting "Liberty Leading the People", by Delacroix (1798 - 1863), is one of the most prized possessions of the Louvre Museum in Paris, France. This is partly because it depicts the French people bravely rising up against their government in the 3-day July Revolution of 1830. In the painting, the bare-breasted symbol of freedom, Liberty, carries the flag while it also shows the sacrifice of people of all ages and social classes. A little boy fearlessly marches forward carrying two pistols, while an upper-class gentleman in a top hat holds a rifle. Crowds of people with muskets and swords are single-mindedly following Liberty.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org

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9 Comments

John W Shreve

Louella Wilson, Oh oh. "Read what's written." Thanks.

Louella Wilson

John W Shreve, there were multiple French revolutions which followed 'The French Revolution' of 1789. This one is referred to as the 'July Revolution of 1830, which toppled King Charles X. As stated above.

billyboy915

James Webb, The misspelling is inconsequential, but the 3 thumbs down is a disheartening indicator of a culture of denial. We don't have to like our history. In fact, it's a healthy thing to detest the atrocities of our past. It only means we are learning and growing; becoming better. It's sad that there are those who still disavow the truth, but that doesn't make it any less true.

Gary Ellis

I had the good fortune of seeing this great piece of art and history.

John W Shreve

James Webb, And this painting does not portray the French Revolution.

billyboy915

James Webb, It is "Liberté, égalité, fraternité." And yes, it would be nice if schools taught the truth, but too many people don't like the truth and prefer to ban books that dare address history truthfully. Denying the truth concerning slavery and the simple truth that little Johnny might have either 2 daddies or 2 mommies upsets some who would rather pretend those truths don't exist. De Nile may be a river in Egypt, but unfortunately, denial is the CHOICE of many in the US.